Justin Hartley has had quite an impressive career, with starring roles in Smallville, This Is Us, Tracker and more. In between his acting work, the CBS star, who has gone through an amazing Hollywood transformation, is also a doting dad to his daughter. “The proudest moment of my career is building Tracker from the ground up with [director] Ken Olin and having people believe in us enough to give us money to shoot it,” Justin reflected in a March 2025 interview with Us Weekly. “Seeing the response from the people that watch it, that love it, that’s it. You never think you’re gonna be able to do something like that, but it’s been remarkab.
One of Justin’s earliest acting credits was from when he portrayed Fox Crane on the soap opera Passions. The role lasted from 2002 to 2006. In 2004, Justin became a dad to daughter Isabella Justice Hartley, whom he welcomed with first wife Lindsay Korman. 2006 Justin starred in the TV movie Aquaman in. Additionally, that same year, he began his arc on Smallville as Oliver Queen and his alter-ego, Green Arrow.
Let’s be honest—Justin Hartley has always been easy on the eyes. But over the years, the Tracker star has gone from fresh-faced heartthrob to full-blown Hollywood icon. Whether you first saw him on Passions, cheered him on in Smallville, or swooned over him in This Is Us, one thing’s clear: this man is aging like fine wine.
So buckle up. We’re diving into Justin Hartley’s transformation—from his early career to now. And yep, we’ve got the pictures to prove it.
Who Is Justin Hartley? A Quick Recap
Before we jump into his transformation, let’s rewind.
From Soap Operas to Superhero Shows
Justin first caught eyes as Fox Crane in the soap opera Passions back in 2002. He played the bad boy with a smirk that could melt a glacier. But it was his role as Green Arrow in Smallville that really turned heads.
Leading Man in Prime Time
Fast forward to 2016, and Justin became Kevin Pearson in This Is Us, earning fans and acclaim. Now, he’s starring in CBS’s Tracker—and looking more polished than ever.
Justin Hartley’s Transformation Timeline
Let’s break it down year by year, so you can see the glow-up unfold.
Early 2000s: The Baby-Faced Soap Star Era
Back in the early 2000s, Justin had that classic “California surfer boy” look—blonde, clean-cut, and boyish. His physique? Lean but not shredded.
Style check: Think frosted tips, oversized suits, and that early-2000s charm we all secretly miss.
Mid-2000s: The Smallville Bulk-Up
To play Green Arrow, Justin had to level up physically. That meant gym time—and lots of it.
His Fitness Routine Kicked In
He traded soft features for a chiseled jawline and some serious muscle tone. Shirtless scenes? He nailed them.
Look evolution: Slight stubble, sharper haircut, and a wardrobe with more edge.
2010s: The Dapper Drama Star
Enter This Is Us. Justin’s look matured, just like his roles.
Goodbye Baby Face, Hello Leading Man
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Suits got sleeker.
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Haircuts got sharper.
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His face? More rugged and structured, with just enough smile lines to show experience.
2020s: Peak Justin Hartley
This is the era of the Hollywood glow-up. Justin looks stronger, leaner, and more confident than ever.
The “Tracker” Look
In Tracker, he plays a rugged, resourceful loner. And that role fits him like a glove. Picture:
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Scruffy beard
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Weathered leather jackets
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Eyes that say, “Yeah, I’ve seen some stuff.”
He’s no longer just the good-looking guy. He’s the guy.
Justin’s Hair Transformation Over the Years
From floppy surfer hair to sophisticated side parts, his hair game has evolved like crazy.
Then: Blonde, Tousled, and Carefree
Think “college guy who never misses a beach day.”
Now: Sleek, Styled, and Suave
Clean lines, darker tones, and that irresistible salt-and-pepper hint—pure style.
Wardrobe Evolution: From Casual to Classy
He’s gone from Abercrombie model vibes to straight-up GQ-level fits.
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Early days: Tank tops and board shorts
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Mid-career: Polos, denim, and casual layers
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Now: Tailored suits, dark tones, boots, and leather
His red carpet looks? Chef’s kiss.
Fitness Glow-Up: How He Built That Body
Yes, we’re going there.
Strength Training & Consistency
Justin’s physique didn’t just appear overnight. He put in serious work.
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Weight training: 4–5 times a week
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Cardio: HIIT and hiking
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Diet: High-protein, low-junk, lots of water
And yep, the abs are real.
Subtle Cosmetic Tweaks? Let’s Talk Glow-Ups
While there’s no confirmation of any work done, fans have speculated:
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Smoother skin
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Whiter teeth
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More defined jawline
Honestly? Could just be great skincare and good genes. Either way, he’s glowing.
Justin Hartley’s Personal Life and Its Impact on His Image
His personal life—divorce, remarriage, and fatherhood—has shaped how fans see him.
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He seems more grounded
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More introspective
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And somehow… more relatable
Married Life 2.0
Now married to Sofia Pernas, Justin seems happier, more confident, and truly at ease in his skin.
Best Then-and-Now Photos of Justin Hartley
Let’s spotlight the most iconic glow-up moments:
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2003 vs. 2024 headshots – From baby-face to bearded boss
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Shirtless scenes: Smallville vs. Tracker – Fitness gains for days
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Red carpet 2010 vs. 2023 – One word: transformation
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TV stills from This Is Us – Emotional depth, visible maturity
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Instagram selfies – Raw, real, and confident
What Makes Justin Hartley’s Transformation So Inspiring?
It’s not just the physical changes. It’s the evolution of a man who’s grown, matured, and stepped into his full potential.
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He aged naturally
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Evolved his style
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Stayed consistent with health
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And most importantly—he never stopped leveling up
Final Thoughts: The Hartley Effect
Justin Hartley isn’t just a glow-up. He’s a case study in aging gracefully, staying relevant, and becoming better with time. Whether you’re a fan of his acting, his looks, or both (who isn’t?), one thing’s for sure—he’s only getting started.
